CII Awarded $5 Million as Part of Larger Investment in Watts

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Childrenā€™s Institute has been awarded $5 million to focusĀ on services that will help improve the health, economic stability and educational attainment ofĀ residents in Watts. This fundingĀ representsĀ a larger partnership withĀ the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA)Ā that will bringĀ $35 million in new investments to revitalize Watts.

In late 2019, CIIĀ joined HACLAĀ in its proposal to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Choice Neighborhood Implementation grant. CIIĀ found out last week that our proposalĀ wasĀ awarded the funding, whichĀ will help transform Watts and focus on the redevelopment and expansion of 700 public housing units into 1,569 units at the Jordan Downs developmentĀ where CIIĀ hasĀ a large presence through our Behavioral Health & Wellness and Early Childhood Education programs.

CIIā€™s President & CEO Martine Singer said the award marks another step forward for the community of Watts. In early 2020, CII broke ground on a new Frank Gehry-designed Watts Campus that will house critical therapeutic programs and a variety of supports for children and families.

ā€œCII is deeply committed to the children and families of Watts, and thrilled to be a partner on this critical initiative that will empower the community for years to come,ā€ Singer said.

Mayor Eric Garcetti said in a press release that while the city applied for the funding prior to the current COVID-19 crisis, it is the right moment to receive support for a community that will greatly benefit from these resources.

“At a moment when so many people are hurting, it is essential that we keep investing in our communities and sustain the momentum of the neighborhood-based transformation underway in Watts,” said Mayor Garcetti.

This effort will be supported by over 30 partners that include the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE), Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital Foundation, and Partnership for Los Angeles Schools among many others.

As the lead entity for the ā€œPeopleā€ component of the plan, CII will coordinate services for Jordan Downs residents including mental health support, managing a newly created People Center and organizing community resource fairs.

ā€œThis is a significant opportunity for community transformation both for the residents of Jordan Downs and Watts broadly,ā€ said Danette McBride, CIIā€™s Vice President of Community Innovations . ā€œI am thrilled that CII, as the People lead, will be an integral component of the process.ā€

Over the coming months, CII will share more information about the project. Implementation of these services will begin in 2021.

Volunteer Appreciation Week

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Itā€™s National Volunteer Appreciation Week and we are reflecting on our loyal volunteers and the impact they make at CII. In 2019, more than 4,300 volunteers contributed 20,000 hours of service to support children and families in Los Angeles. Those hours are valued at $450,000!*

While our volunteer activities are on hold during COVID-19, many CII volunteers have participated in #Give19, the social media campaign we launched to raise money to get essential supplies ā€“ like food, soap and diapers ā€“ to families impacted by this crisis.

Here are some volunteer highlights from the past year:

Age of Learning

One Saturday in June, more than 50 volunteers from Age of Learning, creators of ABCmouse, transformed the outdoor playground at our Western Head Start Center into a vibrant and interactive space to encourage play and learning. In addition to creating a large mural, the team put up new signs and donated games and sports equipment. When the children came to school Monday morning, their amazed faces said it all. CII Board of Trustee Sunil Gunderia is Chief Strategy Officer at Age of Learning and helped make the volunteer event possible.

Haworth

More than 100 volunteers from 20 design and architecture firms sponsor CIIā€™s annual Gears4Kids event. Haworth, the furniture and office space manufacturer, buys bikes for kids in CIIā€™s programs and taps into their network of Los Angeles-based design firms to contribute lights, bells, water bottle holders and locks. The volunteers help kids assemble and accessorize their bikes, and LAPD is on hand to teach bike safety.

UCLA Student and Alumni Volunteers

CII receives support from different student groups throughout the year, including UCLA students and alumni. In September, for Hispanic Heritage Month, the UCLA Latino Alumni Association beautified one of CIIā€™s preschools in Watts by adding a fresh coat of paint to the exterior. Later in the year, another UCLA student group contributed supplies and gifts at Florence Griffith Joyner Elementary School, where CII provides comprehensive supports to students and their families.

Capital Group

Once again, Capital Group employees spent a day in November assembling Thanksgiving Harvest Bags for children and families served by CII. They filled bags with stuffing mix, mashed potatoes and grocery gift cards.

Freya Zhou and Friends

With over a thousand children and parents in attendance, the Winter Family Festival would not be possible without the support of nearly 100 volunteers. Age of Learning, Loyola Marymount University, HCVT and CII support group Les Amies helped families celebrate the holidays with games, arts and crafts, gifts and lunch.

One volunteer who has consistently supported Winter Family Festival is Freya Zhou. The recent college graduate uses her birthday wish each year to enlist friends to help out at Winter Family Festival. This year, Zhou expanded her involvement by joining the event planning committee.

Junior League of Los Angeles (JLLA)

As a long-time sponsor of the Father-Daughter Tea, JLLA brought 30 volunteers to the event, which celebrates the unique bond between dads and their daughters. JLLA holds literacy events throughout the year featuring reading circles, arts and crafts and dance groups, and a Halloween-themed event in October.

*The estimated value of a volunteer hour is $29.95. The estimate is based on the average hourly earnings (plus 12 percent, to account for fringe benefits) of all production and non-supervisory workers

Julio Cruz is Passionate About Youth Success

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In early March amidst growing concerns about COVID-19, many colleges closed campus housing and told students to return home. For many foster youth attending college, campus housing is their only home. Leaving college put them at risk of homelessness.

Julio Cruz saw this crisis as another opportunity to advocate for foster youth. Cruz is the program supervisor for CIIā€™s Individualized Transition Skills Program (ITSP), which supports transition aged foster youth with academic and employment resources, as well as life skills for a successful transition into adulthood. When colleges told students to leave, Cruz and his staff stepped in to assert the legal rights of foster youth, which enabled those students to stay safely in campus housing.

Among CIIā€™s values (Passion, Innovation, Partnership and Equity), passion is important in every role, but Cruz believes it is essential to anyone working in ITSP.Ā  In order to serve this population, Cruz says you have to bring a level of devotion to prove to young people that youā€™re there for them long-term.

CII supports kids in foster care

Without the backing of passionate supporters, youth aging out of the foster system have struggled with high rates of school dropout and unemployment. In Los Angeles, 38% of foster youth will become homeless within the first 18 months of exiting care. Cruz knows these grim statistics all too well, and since joining the program in 2014, heā€™s worked hard to ensure youth avoid these outcomes and become successful.

ā€œThe commitment of our staff to these youth is what empowers them to change and grow,ā€ Cruz said.

When a young person enters the program, he or she is typically behind in school or struggling in some other aspect of life. ITSP staff guide them through the transition into adulthood by serving as a combination of counselor, role model and life coach.

For Cruz and his team, this can mean driving a youth to a DMV appointment, working through college applications or shopping for work clothes. ITSP staff are always there to answer the phone and talk through whatever issues a youth is facing.

Besides helping youth on college campuses, ITSP staff have provided additional supports to foster youth impacted by COVID-19. Cruz said his team has been working to ensure youth have access to food, money and tools to stay safe and healthy during the crisis.

Foster care support

Evelyn Medina, who has worked alongside Cruz as an ITSP Supervisor, said regardless of the challenge, Cruzā€™s passion for ITSP always leads to him finding solutions. He regularly inspires team members and youth to reach their goals.

ā€œHe has a ā€˜whatever it takesā€™ attitude,ā€ Medina said. ā€œHeā€™s always looking for ways to improve ITSP, and I admire him for that.ā€

Cruz believes his efforts pay off in the programā€™s results. Each year the team holds the Dream BIG Graduation celebrating ITSP youth who are finishing high school and enrolling in college. Typically, only 50% of foster youth will graduate from high school and only 13% will go onto college. In 2019, CIIā€™s ITSP youth boasted a graduation rate of 94% with each student planning to attend some form of higher education.

While Cruz loves working with young people aging out of foster care, he is now transitioning into a new role in CIIā€™s Prevention & Aftercare Program. Cruz is starting this new opportunity as the Prevention & Aftercare Supervisor where he will support family strengthening initiatives designed to limit child and family involvement in the foster care system. Though he is changing programs, Cruzā€™s passion for the work and supporting youth isnā€™t going anywhere.

#GIVE19 to Support LA Families Impacted by COVID-19

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The loss of jobs and school closures related to COVID-19 is having a devastating impact on Los Angeles families already living in poverty.

As an essential service, Childrenā€™s Institute continues to provide support including remote mental health sessions, weekday lunch distribution to preschoolers and emergency interventions.

Contribute to a powerful collective effort and ensure LA families receive the essentials needed to stay healthy and safe during this crisis and beyond. You can make a difference by donating $19, posting on social media and nominating three friends to do the same.

Now more than ever, we need your support.

Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Follow Childrenā€™s Institute on social media: @ChildrensInstituteLA on Facebook & Instagram and @ChildrensInstLA on Twitter
  2. Donate $19+ to Childrenā€™s Institute by texting LAKIDS to 243725.
  3. Post a supplied graphic and the suggested copy on social media. Tag three of your friends who you can count on to donate/share and nominate them to #GIVE19.

Download social graphics by clicking here here.

Instagram & Facebook Post

  • Too many families in LA are struggling to get basics like food, diapers and education supplies in the midst of #covid_19. I just donated $19 to @childrensinstitutela #GIVE19 and I challenge <TAG THREE FRIENDS> to do the same.

Twitter Post

  • Too many families in LA are struggling to get basics like food, diapers and education supplies in the midst of #covid19. I just donated $19 to @childrensinstla #GIVE19 and I challenge <TAG THREE FRIENDS> to do the same.

Video PostsĀ 

Personalized video messages are also encouraged. Just be sure to include the following in your post:
āˆš Hashtag: #GIVE19
āˆš Call to Action: Donate $19 by texting LAKIDS to 243725
āˆš Tag: 3 friends who youā€™d like to nominate to do the same
āˆš Tag us: @ChildrensInstituteLA on Facebook & Instagram and @ChildrensInstLA on Twitter

We are confident that our Los Angeles community will come together to support each other during these challenging times, and we would very much appreciate your tax-deductible donation and help spreading the word.

Resources for Children and Families During Coronavirus (COVID-19)

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Childrenā€™s Institute has compiled a list of helpful resources available to children and families impacted by coronavirus (COVID-19) in Los Angeles. We will continue to update this list as new resources become available.

Child careĀ 
  • Little Thinkers DayCare
    • 1415 Centinela Ave, Inglewood, CA 90302
    • 6:00 am-6:00 pm Monday-Friday
    • 6 months to 11 years old
    • $100- $180 weekly tuitionĀ 
    • Breakfast, lunch, and snacks provided
    • (310) 800-2379Ā  littlethinkers2019@gmail.com
    • Near or in Spa 6 (in Compton)
  • LA County Childcare for Essential Workers: SeeĀ  flyer #1 andĀ  flyer #2 (for non-essential workers)
    • Call 888 92ā€“CHILD (888-922 4453) or visit here.
  • Child Care Finding and Subsidy: To find child care near you, mychildcare.ca.gov. To find out if you are eligible for subsidized care, (888) 922-4453 connects families with Los Angeles County subsidy options, and your caseworker can help connect you to DCFS subsidy support.
COVID-19 Testing Information

We help under-resourced communities get free testing and access to telehealth services during the Coronavirus Public Health crisis.

https://covidmd.org/

  • Helping Hands Senior Foundation
    • Phone Number: (818) 279-6580
    • Clients 65+ with Medicare
    • Test are sent in the mail to clientā€™s home
    • Client should call center and they will give further instruction. Care coordinator will then reach out within 2-3 business days.
    • 9:00 am-5:30 pm Monday-Friday
    • They also provide seniors 65+ with placement assistance
  • Translated Coronavirus Information
  • L.A. City
  • Mobile Testing Sites
    • Provided by MLK Jr. Hospital, the testing site is located at Charles Drew University Campus . Address: 1731 E. 120th Street
    • Anyone who is an essential worker can get a test - even if you are not showing any symptoms. Sign up here.
  • First District Covid-19 Drive-up Mobile Testing locations
https://mcusercontent.com/a55e522874094c87121ae05e9/images/1108eec5-27f8-4d53-89b5-a4e9a5b3ca05.jpg Testing Eligibility Testing Sites:Ā  JWCH COVID-19 Testing Flu Shot:
  • Nov 14, 2020
  • 10am-2pm
  • 3200 E Imperial Hwy, Lynwood, CA 90262
  • Receive a $10 gift card
  • To learn more, call 310.661.3000 activehealthyinformed.org
Domestic Violence
  • National Hotline: Call 1-800-799-7233 24/7 Or text LOVEIS to 22522
  • LA County Domestic Violence Hotline:Ā  Call 1-800-978-3600
  • Ā LA City - Text 9-1-1Ā 
  • Mobile users in LA now have the ability to send text messages to 911, giving hearing and speech impaired residents, or those in situations where it is too dangerous to dial 911, a potentially life-saving option
  • Up to dateĀ list of Shelters & additional 24 hour hotlines that are still operating
  • Resources for survivors- Resources to address the housing needs of survivors in the CARES Act
  • Domestic Violence Clinics
    • Courthouse-based domestic violence clinics (Downtown LA, Long Beach, Santa Monica) are providing assistance with restraining orders
    • 9:00 am-noon and 1:00-3:00 pm Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
  • Ā Project Safe Haven Hotline Numbers
    • Project Safe Haven is a collaborative effort by the Los Angeles Mayorā€™s Fund, Mayorā€™s Office, and Philanthropic donors to secure safe housing for 900 survivors to provide a way for neighbors who are not safe in their homes due to domestic violence to heed the County Health Order to stay inside and be protected from the spread of Coronavirus. Call one of the hotlines below!!
    • SouthBay/ South Los Angeles:Ā 
      • Jenesse Center: 800-479-7328
      • Rainbow Services: 310- 547-9343
      • Su Casa: 562-402-4888
      • Coalition to Abolish Slavery & Trafficking: 888-539-2373
    • Los Angeles Metro Area:Ā 
      • East L.A. Womenā€™s Center: 800-585-6231
      • Peace Over Violence: 310-281-2822
    • Hollywood:Ā 
      • Strength United: 818-886-0453 or 661-253-0258
      • Center for the Pacific Asian Family: 800-339-3940
      • Peace Over Violence: 310-281-2822
      • Sojourn: 310-264-6644
    • San Fernando Valley:
      • Haven Hills: 818-887-6589
      • Strength United: 818-886-0453 or 661-253-0258
  • Ā Domestic Violence Legal Services
    • Los Angeles County Bar Association: In-person services offered by appointment only at Central Division-Family Justice Center - 213-624-3665; dvp@lacba.org
    • Break the Cycle (for ages 12-24): Intake by phone or text: 424-209-2532, Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
    • Community Legal Aid SoCal- Hotline: (800) 834-5001, Mon.-Thurs., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri., 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
    • Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles- DV hotline:Ā  800-399-4529 x8097, Online intake:Ā  https://lafla.org/get-help/
    • LGBTQ Center Long Beach Legal Services- Intake line: 562-433-8595
    • Los Angeles Center for Law and Justice- (323) 980-3500 (for support with a restraining order or urgent family law or immigration legal matter); or email: services@laclj.org
    • Neighborhood Legal Services Los Angeles- Hotline: 800-433-6251
  • ā€œWe Existā€ Virtual Resources for LGBTQ+ Youth and their families
    • Digital Drop-In Space: Mondays & Thursdays 1-3 PM
    • Peer Support Group: Tuesdays 1-2 PM
    • Family Support Group: Tuesdays 4-5 PMĀ 
    • Contact for Zoom Links!
      • Instagram: @WeExist.ttc
      • Phone: (818) 527-6562
      • Email: weexist@tarzanatc.org
Educational Resources
  • ABC Mouse
    • Preschool to 2nd grade
    • Redeem code: SCHOOl1446
  • Reading IQ
    • Preschool to 6th grade
    • Redeem code: SCHOOl1446
  • MrsVelazquezArt
    • Free art activities for families are home
  • Ā LA County Library provides many digital resources you can access 24/7, no matter where you are. A library card number and PIN is needed for access
    • Read eBooks and listen to audiobooks on OverDrive or Libby
    • Stream movies and TV shows on Kanopy and Hoopla
    • Stream music on Freegal
    • Brainfuse provides kids and learners of all ages with one-on-one homework help and tutoring from 1:00 ā€“ 10 :00 p.m. every day
  • Ā PBS SoCal Partnership with Bright By Text
    • Bright by Text is a free messaging program for parents and caregivers with children ages 0-8 years old. Messages are targeted to children's age and include research-based content from Bright by Three,Ā  PBS KIDS, Vroom, and Sesame Street. The program is proven to build nurturing caregiver-child relationships, and positively impact a childā€™s healthy development and school readiness. PBS SoCal will also curate local messaging to support families and children with information and activities in both English and Spanish.Ā 
    • To sign up, simply text SOCAL to 274448 or click on the link below. You will begin receiving 2 to 5 messages per week, and each message will include a link to additional resources. Bright by Text is completely free to sign up, but message and data rates may apply. You may opt-out of these messages at any time by texting STOP to 27448.
    • Sign up for Bright by Text here
  • Sesame Street in Communities ResourcesĀ 
    • Discover games, videos and more on topics important to you and your child.
  • Play At Home resources powered by Playworks Southern California, a national non-profit leveraging the power of the play to ensure safe and healthy play is experienced by every kid, every day ā€“ traditionally during recess and now, at home.In response to COVID-19 and the ongoing need from educators and families to keep kids and adults engaged in play, Playworks launched ā€˜Play At Homeā€™ to feature popular games seen on the playground that also meet the CDC recommendations, factoring in social distancing, and limited play equipment. Newly developed Play At Home resources include:
    • Playbook: The Play At Home Playbook game guide can be utilized to keep youth active at home during school closures with translations in English, Spanish, Russion, Simplified Chinese, Somali and Vietnamese.
    • Game Series: A series of Playworks games and videos that families can use to start playing at home.
    • Facebook Live Recess: #PlayAtHome Recess live on Facebook at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m. (PT) Monday through Friday that allow students to tune in for stretching and warm-ups, interactive games, cheers, and cooldown activities.
    • We wanted to provide all the High Schools girls the opportunity to watch the new film, Coach. This film will be free for all the girls to stream in the month of June at website www.coachthemovie.com under the ā€œWatchā€ page. We want todayā€™s children to grow up in a world where itā€™s normal to see women in positions of authority in sportsā€”and not just as athletes.
  • Talking to Kids about Protesting: 5 Things I want my kids to know - Click Here
Employment
  • Brotherhood Crusade is Hiring!
    • Brotherhood Crusade is an organization which helps individuals overcome barriers that deter their pursuit of success in life
    • See job openings here: https://brotherhoodcrusade.org/job-openings/Ā 
    • Hiring for Youth Organizing Coordinator, Job Developer, Youth Advocate, & more!Ā 
  • Hire LA Youth- cost-free program to help Los Angeles youth ages 14 to 24Ā  find employment and internships! (virtual jobs available)Ā 
  • 99 Cents Only is Hiring
  • Starbucks Community Store in Watts Hiring
Financial Resources
  • Click here to learn more about resources for workers impacted by coronavirus (COVID-19)Ā 
  • Click here to learn more if you have been laid off, experienced reduced hours, or need tax assistance
  • Benefits for workers impacted by COVID-19 and also heck out the EDD's Frequently Asked Questions here.
  • Pandemic Unemployment Assistance(PUA): helps unemployed Californians who are business owners, self-employed, independent contractors, have limited work history, and others not usually eligible for regular state UI benefits who are out of business or services are significantly reduced as a direct result of the pandemic. The provisions of the program include:
    • Up to 39 weeks of benefits starting with weeks of unemployment beginning February 2, 2020, through the week ending December 26, 2020, depending on when you became directly impacted by the pandemic.
    • A new 13-week federal extension for those who run out of their regular state-provided UI benefits (maximum 26 weeks)
    • Apply to PUA: UI OnlineSM or by phone, mail, or fax.
  • Utility Bill Relief:
  • LA Job Portal : Mayor Garcetti announced the L.A. Jobs Portal, a place to support residents who's jobs have been impacted by COVID-19.
  • WIC: People who have been economically affected by the COVID-19 crisis and are pregnant, postpartum, or have a child under 5-years-old can apply for WIC services by texting APPLY to 91997, calling WIC at 888-942-2229, or visiting here.
  • Internet For All Now
    • Ā The California Emerging Technology Fund has provided access to affordable offers, as well as a number to call 1-844-841-INFO (4636) to see if you qualify
  • Chrysalis
    • Organization that provides free services to help adults with employment readiness and finding jobs. They are taking new clients remotely
    • To access our remote services, please call (213) 394-2390 or email CS@changelives.org
  • National Domestic Workers Alliance - Coronavirus Care Fund
    • NDWA set-up a fund for in-home care workers, nannies, and house cleaners. If you are a domestic worker, text RELIEF to 97779 to get updates from NDWA, and find out when the Coronavirus Care Fund applications are ready.
  • Clean Power Alliance will provide a one-time $25 bill credit to residential customers who sign up for CARE, FERA, or Medical Baseline assistance through Southern California Edison.
  • Economic Impact Payment (EIP) Program
    • Authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) continues to calculate and automatically send the Economic Stimulus Payments to most eligible individuals, however some may have to provide additional information to the IRS to get their Payments.
    • Persons who are homeless, and those who do not typically file taxes, may also qualify for this program. If you have questions regarding the EIP program, please visit: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/non-filers-enter-payment-info-here, or contact the following IRS representative: Rosemarie Monteagudo, at Rosemarie.Monteagudo@irs.gov.
  • Returning Citizens Stimulus
    • WDACS has partnered with the Center for Employment Opportunities, Inc. (CEO) to connect individuals recently released from incarceration to workforce programs through the Returning Citizens Stimulus (RCS)program. Participants receive financial support for achieving pre-defined milestones over a sixty (60) day period to improve employment outcomes. Participating individuals will benefit from establishing and maintaining a relationship with WDACS contracted Americaā€™s Job Centers of California (AJCCs) to access additional resources to secure permanent unsubsidized employment during the COVID-19 Pandemic.Ā 
    • To facilitate prompt distribution of resources, participants are issued a pay card and receive payments at enrollment, thirty (30) days and sixty (60) days of participation, for a total of $2,750. Milestones options will consist of resume writing, interviewing skills development, financial literacy workshops and many others.
    • Eligibility: Must be at least 18 years old, previously incarcerated and proof of release after January 1, 2020, and be unemployed or working less than 20 hours.
    • To Enroll schedule an appointment at one of the numbers below
      • Southeast L.A. Comprehensive AJCC* Hub Cities Consortium 2677 Zoe Ave., 2nd Floor Huntington Park, CA 90255 Tel (323) 586-4700, TTY (323)586-4707 Fax (323) 586-4702 RCS Contact: Carlos Paez RCS Email: CPaez@hubcities.org RCS Tel: (323) 586-3521
      • Rio Hondo Comprehensive AJCC* Funding Authority (SASSFA) 10400 Pioneer Blvd., Suite 9 Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 Tel (562) 946-2237, TTY (562) 236-2899 Fax (562) 946-5818 RCS Contact: Cinthya Guillen RCS Email: Cguillen@ajcc.lacounty.gov RCS Tel: (562) 946-2237 ext. 255
      • Rancho Dominguez Comprehensive AJCC* Community Career Development (CCD) 2909 E. Pacific Commerce Dr., Compton, CA 90221 Tel (310) 762-1101, TTY (310) 762-1283 Fax (310) 762-1129 RCS Contact: Brandon Jackson RCS Email: bjackson@communitycareer.org RCS Tel: (310) 762-1101
      • Antelope Valley Comprehensive AJCC* Jobs. Vision. Success. SoC al. (JVS) 1420 West Avenue I, Lancaster, CA 93534 Tel (661) 726-4128, TTY (661) 208-4484 Fax (661) 265-8723 RCS Contact: Tiffany Coulston RCS Email: TCoulston@jvs-socal.org RCS Tel: (818) 964-3214
      • Pomona Valley Comprehensive AJCC* Managed Career Solutions (MCS) 264 East Monterey Ave., Pomona, CA 91767 Tel (909) 242-7999, TTY (909) 865-2835 Fax (909) 242-7998 RCS Contact: Claudia Calderon RCS Email: ccalderon@mcscareergroup.com RCS Tel: (909) 242-7999
      • East L.A./West San Gabriel Valley Comprehensive AJCC* Catholic Charities of Los Angeles (AYE) 5301 Whittier Blvd. 2 Los Angeles, CA 90022 Tel (323) 887-7122, TTY (323) 832-1278 Fax (323) 887-8236 RCS Contact: Tamara Jackson RCS Email: tjackson@letc.com RCS Tel: (626) 483-4370
      • Santa Clarita AJCC* Goodwill 20730 Soledad Street Santa Clarita, CA 91351 Tel (661) 298-0152, TTY (661) 298-7349 Fax (661) 251-5643 RCS Contact: Melissa McCubbin RCS Email: mmccubbin@goodwillsocal.org RCS Tel: (661) 568-8353
      • East San Gabriel Valley Comprehensive AJCC* Goodwill Hacienda La Puente Adult School 14101 E. Nelson Ave. La Puente, CA 91746 Tel (626) 934-5700, TTY (626) 934-5777 Fax (626) 934-5778 RCS Contact: Lorraine Gaeta RCS Email: lgaeta@goodwillsocal.org RCS Tel: (626) 934-5714
      • South L.A. AJCC* Catholic Charities of Los Angeles (AYE) L.A. Southwest College, CTE Bldg., Room 115 1600 West Imperial Hwy. Los Angeles, CA 90047 Tel (323) 241-5016, TTY (323) 923-4822 Fax (323) 923-4824 RCS Contact: Aaron Walker RCS Email: awalker@jvs-socal.org RCS Tel: (323) 241-5017
      • Northeast San Fernando Valley AJCC* Goodwill 12502 Van Nuys Blvd. Pacoima, CA 91331 Tel (818) 482-1754 RCS Contact: Karina Mosqueda RCS Email: kmosqueda
      • West Los Angeles AJC C* Jobs. Vision. Success. SoCal. (JVS) 5446 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City, CA 90230 Tel (310) 309-6000, TTY (310) 301-7083 Fax (310) 301-2519 RCS Contact: Martha Escobedo RCS Email: MEscobedo@jvs-socal.org RCS Tel: 818-861-5160
  • YWCA Greater Los Angeles - Ujima Project for COVID-19 Relief
    • Financial Assistance, Food Assistance, and Student Learning Support
    • Eligibility:
      • Identify as Black / African American
      • And reside in cities of Athens, Compton, Crenshaw, Florence, Hyde Park, Leimert Park, Lynwood, Paramount, and Watts
      • And were directly or indirectly impacted by COVID-19
    • For for information and to apply, contact Kristopher McLucas, LCSW
    • Clinical Director, ujimaproject@ywcagla.org or call at (213) 516 - 3602
Food Pantries and Food Banks
  • Baptist Church of Hollywood
    • 1528 N. Wilton Pl. Hollywood, CA 90028
    • Free meal distribution available 9:00 am Monday 5:00 pm Friday while supplies last. Must line up by 4:00 pm Friday to be assigned a number.
    • Must bring own bags
    • Phone: (323) 466-9631
  • Estrella del Mar De Los Angeles - Regis House Community Center
    • 2212 Beverly Blvd Los Angeles 90057
    • 10:00-11:00 am on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month
    • Must live in the community
    • Phone: (213) 380-8168
  • Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
    • Type your zip code clicking the link above to find your nearest food bank.
    • Please call the food bank before going as many are by appointment only right now.
  • Food Net. Centro Maravilla
    • Schedule is posted by click on the link above.
    • By appointment only so please call (323) 260-2804.
  • Karsh Family Social Service Center
    • 3750 W. 6th Street, Los Angeles 90020
    • Diapers and bags of food available Wednesdays and Thursdays by appointment only. Please call: (213) 401-4651
      • Requirements for diapers: Childā€™s caretaker must bring proof of childā€™s name and date of birth (Medi-Cal card of birth certificate). Child must be born in 2015 or later. Clients may only make one appointment for diapers per month.
    • Food Pantry open 7:30-9:30 am Sundays. Food pantry open to everybody.
  • SOVAFood PantryĀ 
    • Hours are 9:00 am-noon Sunday and 10:00 am-1:30 pm Monday-Thursday.
    • Eligibility requirement can be found here.
  • St. Francis Center
    • Recipients must register on Tuesdays between 10 am-noon and must provide a photo ID, proof of address and fill out an application with information used for our internal census. Pantry services will either be modified to a pre-bag model of distribution or modified clientsā€™ choice model of distribution.
  • Bread of Life Foursquare Gospel
    • 5175 W. Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, 90016
    • Food bank open to anyoneĀ 
    • Wednesday: 11:00 am to 12:30 om - bring your own bag(s).Ā 
    • Phone: (323) 309-0670
  • Brownson House Community Service Center
    • 1307 Warren St. Los Angeles 90033
    • Free meal distribution available 9:00 am-1:00 pm Monday-Friday
    • Must bring ID
  • Central City Neighborhood Partners
    • 501 S. Bixel Street Los Angeles, 90017
    • Food distribution on Thursday only from 9:00 am - 1:00 pm (or until food is gone)
    • Phone: (213) 482-8618
  • Childrenā€™s Hospital - Los Angeles
    • 5000 Sunset Blvd. 7th FLoor., Los Angeles, 90027
    • Wednesday only from 10:00-11:00 am - bring your own bag(s)
    • Phone: (323) 361-5981
  • Downtown Womenā€™s Center
    • 442 S. San Pedro Street, Los Angeles, 90011
    • Food distribution open to anyoneĀ 
    • Food distribution (breakfast, lunch, and snacks) daily from 9:00-10:00 am. Distribution is done through the gate.Ā 
    • (213) 680-0600
  • Epiphany Episcopal Church
    • 2808 Altura Street., Los Angeles, 90031
    • Food distribution open to anyone
    • Boxes will be provided on a first come, first served basis, while supplies last.
    • Food distribution on 2nd and 4th Friday of the month at 8:00 am
    • (323) 227-9931
  • Immanuel Presbytarian Church
    • 668 S. Catalina Street, Los Angeles, 90005
    • Food distribution open to anyoneĀ 
    • Grab and Go schedule: Monday: 9:00 am-12:00 pm and 1:00-3:00 pm; Tuesday 12:00 pm-3:00 pm and 4:00-6:00 pm; Wednesday: 9:00 am-12:00 pm and 1:00-3:00 pm; Thursday: 12:00-3:00 pm and 4:00-6:00 pm; Friday: 9:00 am-12:00 pm and 1:00-3:00 pmĀ 
    • Food Pantry schedule Saturday: 8:00-10:30 am.
    • (213) 389-3191
  • The Salvation Army
    • 5941 Hollywood Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90028
    • Food distribution (and Candy bags)Ā 
    • The public will be able to walk up/drive up to pick up food (pre-packaged in a box) and candy bag(s) for their childrenĀ 
    • Event will begin at 11:00am on Saturday, October 31, 2020
    • Please call (714) 316-1561 for any questions
    • Boxes will be provided on a first come, first served basis, while supplies last.
    • Everyone will need to wear a mask
  • All Peoples Community Center
    • 822 E. 20th Street Los Angeles, CA 90011
    • Food bank open only on Fridays from 9:30 am-1:00 pm
    • Open to local residents only with proof of income and picture ID
    • Phone (213) 716-9115
  • Boys and Girls Club of Metro Los Angeles- Challengers Club House (BGCMLA)
    • Watts Willowbrook - 1339 E. 120th Street Los Angeles, CA 90059; and Jordan Downs- 9900 Grape Street Los Angeles, CA 90002
    • Drive up food bank open Monday - Friday from 3:00 - 4:00 PM (starting 7/6/2020)
    • Phone (323) 567-2278
  • Ephesus Church
    • 7005 S. Western Avenue., Los Angeles, CA 90047
    • Food distribution on 3rd and 4th Thursday of the month at 11:00amĀ 
    • (323) 759- 3993
    • Please wear a mask
  • Christian Food Center
    • 1355 East Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90021
    • Food bank open 9:00 am-3:30 pm Tuesday-Friday and 9:00 am-noon Saturday.
    • Open to everyone.
    • Phone (213) 716-9115
  • Normandie Community ChurchĀ 
    • 3801 S. Normandie Street, Los Angeles, CA 90037
    • Food distribution at 10:45 am every 4th Saturday of the monthĀ 
    • Must bring picture ID
    • Phone: (323) 731-7787
  • Florence Firestone Community Center
    • 7807 S. Compton Avenue Compton, CA 90001
    • Distributions by appointment only on 9:00 am-5:30 pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday
    • By appointment only
    • Phone: (323) 586-6502
  • Praise Chapel Florence Community ChurchĀ 
    • 1750 E. Florence Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90001
    • Food distribution from 9:00-10:30 am every WednesdayĀ 
    • Food is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis
    • Phone: (626) 483-5728
  • RCCG Jesus Embassy Los Angeles
    • 442 E. El Segundo, Los Angeles, CA 90061
    • Food bank at 6:00 pm every MondayĀ 
    • Open to everyone
    • Phone: (818) 300-8640
  • Paramount Care Foundation
    • From 9:00-10:00 am FridaysĀ 
    • Please call (562) 272-7647 before going
  • St. Lawrence of Brindisi Catholic Church
    • Free canned grocery distribution from 7:00-8:30 AM on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
  • WLCAC Family Source Center
    • Fresh produce giveaway from noon-2:00 pm on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month.
    • Call in advance to confirm food supplies are still being distributed for the scheduled times.
  • Ā Women In Action Reaching Out - Long Beach
    • Address: 851 Via Carmelitos, Long Beach CA 90805
    • Phone: (562) 253-8078
    • Hours: 9:00-10:00 am ThursdayĀ 
  • Ā Long Beach Lutheran Social Services
    • Address: 1611 Pine Avenue, Long Beach CA 90813
    • Phone: (562) 599-1321
    • Hours: 10:00 am-12:00 pm & 12:30-2:00 pm Monday-ThursdayĀ 
  • Ā Catholic Charities of Long Beach
    • Address: 123 East 14th Street, Long Beach CA 90813
    • Phone: (213) 251-3432
    • Hours: 9:30 am-12:00 pm and 1:30-3:00 pm Tuesdays and ThursdaysĀ 
  • Ā Carson Hope Community
    • 129 E 223rd Street,Ā  Carson 90745 CA
    • Phone: (310) 480-0117
    • Hours: 11:00 am-4:00 pm ThursdaysĀ 
  • Greater New Morning Star Baptist Church - South Los Angeles
    • 210 W. Florence Avenue, Los Angeles, 90003
    • Food bank open to anyoneĀ 
    • 7:30-11:00 am Saturdays (or until groceries are gone); bring your own bag(s).
    • Phone: (323) 529-4446Ā Ā 
  • Bread of Life Foursquare Gospel - South Los Angeles
    • 701 E. 88th Place., Los Angeles, 90002
    • Food bank open to anyoneĀ 
    • Ā 1:00-3:00 pm Thursday - bring your own bag(s).Ā 
    • Phone: (323) 309-0670
  • Beacon Light Mission
    • 525 Broad Street Wilmington, CA 90744
    • Dinner is served 6:00-6:45 pm every day
    • Open to everyone
    • Phone: (310) 830-7063
  • First United Methodist
    • 1551 El Prado Avenue Torrance, CA 90501
    • Boxed lunch distribution starting at 10:45 am until food is gone every 4th Saturday of the month
    • Phone: (310) 328-3242
  • Harbor Interfaith Services
    • 670 W. 9th Street San Pedro, CA 90731
    • Food distribution 9:00 am-5:00 pm
    • Must bring with them ID, proof of address and proof of income.Ā Ā 
    • Phone: (310) 831-9123
  • San Pedro Service Center
    • 769 W. 3rd Street San Pedro, CA 90731
    • Food distribution Monday-Friday by appointment only.Ā Ā 
    • Phone: (310) 519-609
  • St. Peter and Paul Poverty Program - Wilmington
    • Address: 943 Lagoon Avenue,Ā  Wilmington CA 90745
    • Phone: (310) 834-5215
    • Hours: 9:00-11:00 am Mondays, Tuesdays and ThursdaysĀ 
  • St. Margaretā€™s Center
    • 10217 Inglewood Ave. Lennox, CA 90304
    • Must call and schedule an appointment.Ā  Distribution is only by appointment. Serving people in the 90047 zip code.Ā  ID must be provided.
    • Phone: (310) 672-2208
  • Ā Centro Palabra de Fe Church - Compton
    • Address: 107 W. Artesia Boulevard, Compton CA 90220
    • Phone: (310) 632-7337
    • Hours: 11:00 am-noon every Sunday - curbside service
Foster Youth and Former Foster Youth
  • Some foster youth who live on-campus may have no home to go to when their college campuses close. If you are or know of a foster youth that is staying at a college dorm room that is going to be closed, please contact Together We Rise (info@togetherwerise.org ) and they will provide or help find housing.
  • iFoster is currently offering technology access to foster youth ages 13-24, which include: free ,unlimited high-speed data hotspots, headsets, and laptops to assist in taking online classes. For additional information on the resources that they have, call or email iFoster at: 1-855-936-7837 or phone@ifoster.org .
  • If you are, or were previously, in foster care and need a laptop for remote learning for school, email One Simple Wish at info@onesimplewish.orgĀ 
  • Housing Resources
    • If you are a current or former foster youth between 18 and 25 years old and are looking for housing, click here for information about the THPP-NMD and THP-Plus programs
  • Extended Foster Care
    • For information about extended foster care established by AB 12, the California Fostering Connections to Success Act, click here
    • For additional support make sure to reach out to the foster youth ombudsman. Click here to access their website for additional resources
Health
  • Special Enrollment-Period for Health Care Coverage due to COVID-19
    • Covered California has issued a special-enrollment period for those impacted by income changes, reduced hours or lay off due to COVID-19.
    • If the following circumstances apply to you, you may be eligible for health care coverage through Covered CA:
      • You've lost Medi-Cal coverage
      • You've lost your employer-sponsored coverage
      • Your COBRA coverage is exhausted
      • You are no longer eligible for student health coverage
    • To learn if you're eligible, visit Covered CA. To apply, you may apply online or call a Covered CA Certified Insurance Agent or Navigator for free and confidential enrollment help.
    • Those without access to the Internet can call Covered CA's Service Center at 1-800-300-1506 for assistance with determining eligibility and/or applying for health care coverage.
    • If you're not eligible for Covered CA health coverage, you may be eligible for health insurance through LA County's My Health LA (MHLA). MHLA is a no-cost health care program for individuals or families who do not have and cannot get health insurance. For assistance over the phone with MHLA, call 1-844-744-6452 from 7:30 am-5:30 pm Monday through Friday.
  • MAMAā€™s Neighborhood Program is providing services to pregnant women and those who have recently delivered during the COVID-19 crisis by offering telehealth visits for medical and behavioral health services, social care navigation, and nursing support. Pregnant women in the safety net who need prenatal and immediate postpartum services can call 844-37-MAMAS for appointments and enhanced perinatal services.
  • California has launched a nurse advice line for persons with Medi-Cal and uninsured individuals: (877) 409-9052, to talk about COVID-19 symptoms and resources. In an emergency, please call 911. More information on this Medi-Nurse line can be found online: https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/Pages/DHCS-COVID%E2%80%9119-Medi-Nurse-Line.aspx.
  • One Degree
    • One Degree is a free nonprofit website and mobile platform that makes it easy for community members and nonprofit professionals to find, manage and access thousands of community resources.
    • https://www.1degree.org/
  • Angelenos in Action- Slow the Spread of COVID-19
    • Sign up to take a weekly text survey to help keep yourself and others safe from COVID. This voluntary survey is less than 1-minute and will help us track COVID-like symptoms throughout LA County. Join Angelenos in Action to help LA County respond quicker to COVID!
    • These are the steps:
      • 1. Text @PROTECT to 35134 to sign up for the survey TO: 35134 or click here to sign up online
      • 2. Answer 5 quick questions
      • 3. Once enrolled, you will be randomized to one day a week to receive the text survey
      • 4. Every week on that day, the LA County Department of Public Health will text you one YES/NO question to ask how youā€™re feelingĀ 
      • 5. If you feel unwell, you will receive two more YES/NO questions about COVID-19-like symptoms
    • Ā All your data is completely confidential. You can opt out at any time.
  • Core Center- Weekly webinar series- What you need to know about substance use disorder (SUD)
    • Join is every week for one hour to learn about SUD and how to care for yourself and others.
    • Tuesdays at 10am and Wednesdays at 3pmĀ 
    • Join Skype meeting: https://meet.lync.com/lacounty-ph/celorde/0MQDBBZ2
    • Join by phone- 1-323-776-6996/ conference ID: 389778608
    • For questions contact Barbara LaBon: 323-769-7842 or blabon@ph.lacounty.gov
  • Drive-Thru Flu Shot Clinic
    • October 22 - 10 am-2 pm
    • 3200 E Imperial Hwy, Lynwood Ca 90262
    • For more information please call 310.661.3000
  • Flue Shot Clinic
    • November 7th - 10 am-2 pm
    • Weingart YMCA Wellness & Aquatic CenterĀ  9900 S Vermont Ave Los Angeles CA 90044
    • 310.330.3130 lacare.org/frc
Housing/Shelters
  • LA County Temporary Eviction Moratorium
    • On July 21, 2020, the Board of Supervisors voted to extend the temporary eviction moratorium through September 30, 2020. Additional extensions may be reviewed and approved on a month-by-month basis by the Board. More information on Temporary Eviction Moratorium can be found at dcba.lacounty.gov/noevictions.
    • Beginning March 4, 2020, through the end of the local emergenĀ­cy, no owner can evict a residential tenant for nonpayment of rent if the tenant is unable to pay rent because of circumstances related to the COVIDā€19, such as:
      • Loss of income due to workplace closure or reduced hours due to COVIDā€19.
      • Loss of income or increased child care expenditures due to school closures.
      • Health care expenditures related to being ill with COVIDā€19 or caring for a household member who is ill with COVIDā€19.
      • Loss of income relating to reasonable expenditures stemming from government ordered emergency measures.
    • Ā Tenants must notify their landlord of their inability to pay the full rent before the due date or within 7 days after the rent due date. The L.A. City Ordinance does not require tenants to provide documentation with this notification. But it is strongly recommended that this form be filled out in case of court action.
    • Tenants may seek information and assistance from HCIDLA by calling 866ā€557ā€RENT or 866ā€557ā€7368, Monday ā€ Friday, between the hours of 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, and weekends, Saturday and Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, or by filing a complaint online at: hcidla.lacity.org/Fileā€aā€Complaint
  • Rent Stabilization Ordinance
    • The Mayor & City Council have temporarily prohibited rent increases on occupied rental units that are subject to the Los Angeles City Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO). No rent increase that became effective on or after March 30, 2020, is allowed, unless approved by HCIDLA. Rent increases cannot be imposed until one (1) year after the Emergency Declaration period is lifted. Rent increases are not retroactive and do not accumulate during the one (1) year period.
    • The council also adopted amendments to the temporary tenant protection ordinance to prohibit landlords from using coercion, intimidation or fraud to get their rentersā€™ stimulus checks; it provides tenants with a private ā€œRight of Actionā€ if their landlord has violated any of the protections the City has extended during this emergency; requires landlords to provide tenants with Housing Departmentā€™s ā€œProtections Noticeā€ every time they contact them about the rental agreement during this period in the language predominantly used by the tenant. Tenants have the right to sue and be awarded up to $10,000 per offense or $15,000 if 65+. Housing documents and resources can be found at hcidla.lacity.org
  • Ā COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance for Unincorporated Areas.
  • The LAHSA Information Hotline is open and available. Call (213) 225-6581, 7:30 am-4:30 pm. They can provide shelter referrals and winter shelter information.
  • Project Roomkey: A new network of hotel and motel sites operated by LAHSA and providers, to shelter and safely isolate highly vulnerable people experiencing homelessness to prevent their exposure to COVID-19.
    • To participate in Project Roomkey, clients must be referred to the program by a homeless services provider, health care provider, law enforcement, or other service provider.
  • HOPICS (Homeless Outreach Program Integrated Care System) : provides comprehensive services and integrated care for homeless and reentry community. Provide Primary and Behavioral health services, homeless services, and trauma recovery centers.Ā 
    • 2 Locations Open During COVID-19:Ā 
      • 5849 Crocker St., Los Angeles, CA 90003
        • Phone: 323-432-4399
        • Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
      • 5715 S. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90037
        • 323-948-0444
        • Hours of Operation:
        • Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8:00 am-5:00 pm
        • Tuesday and Thursday 8:00 am-9:00 pm
        • Saturday 8:00 am-4:30 pm
  • Angelā€™s Flight at Catholic Charities of LA, Inc
    • Angelā€™s Flight is a no-cost, 30-day emergency youth shelter that provides a safe haven for homeless and at-risk youth ages 10ā€‰ā€“ā€‰17 to land and stabilize during crisis situations and traumatic times in their lives. At Angelā€™s Flight, youth are able to sleep, eat, and receive respite services that will assist in their immediate stabilization and transition to family reunification or other long term, positive living arrangements.
    • Please call for more information at (213) 318-5730
  • Casa Youth Shelter
    • Adolescents who are experiencing homelessness, or are at risk of becoming homeless, need shelter, and we are here to help. For youth who are in danger if they remain in their current situation, or if teens are experiencing conflict in the home that poses a risk to the minor or members of their family, we are here.
    • Casa youth shelter specializes in adolescents and families in time of crisis. They offer free safe shelter for children 12-17, individual, group or family counseling, case management, food, classes, and more to anyone at anytime. For more information please call the hotline: 1800-914-CASA(2272)
  • The Skid Row Move-In Assistance
    • The program provides additional resources to a community with a high concentration of needs The Skid Row Move-In Assistance program provides one (1) time financial assistance to help individuals, youth or families who are experiencing homeless in the Skid Row Community or originated from the Skid Row Community. In addition, individuals who are currently residing in the A Bridge Home El Puente and La Paloma Site located in the northern outskirts of Skid Row are eligible for the assistance as well.
    • To be eligible for the program, the eligible population must meet the following criteria:
      • Eligible clients may be a single individual adult, youth or family residing in the Skid Row Community or originated from the Skid Row Community meaning they have received a service from a Skid Row provider in their homeless history that can be verified in HMIS.
      • All clients must be chronically homeless and be below 50% AMI to qualify.
      • Agencies located in the Skid Row Community inclusive of A Bridge Home, El Puente, La Paloma interim sites orC3/E6 Outreach Teams qualify automatically should the client meet eligibility.
      • For agencies outside of the Skid Row Community, requests must include any of the below verifications:
        • HMIS Record indicating the participant/ household was actively enrolled in a program in the Skid Row Community
        • Verification letter from a homeless service provider to indicate the participant/ household participated in their program
      • For more information and to submit application material contact: skidrowHAP@thepeopleoconcern.
  • LA County COVID-19 Rent Relief
    • Provide rental assistance on behalf of tenants impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Los Angeles County is here in partnership with 211 LA to help tenants make their monthly rent payments during the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • Tenants (renters whose name is listed on the lease or rental agreement) may apply starting August 17th through August 31st by either calling 2-1-1, or by filling out the online application form
      • To be eligible, renters must qualify based on income and have struggled to pay rent due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Their landlord must provide a W-9 and sign a participation agreement in order to have the rent paid on behalf of the tenant.
Immigrants and Folks Who are Undocumented
  • Guide created by California Immigrant Youth Justice Alliance available here.
  • Testing for COVID 19 will not impact public charge status: https://protectingimmigrantfamilies.org/know-your-rights/Ā 
    • USCIS Alert: USCIS encourages all those, including aliens, with symptoms that resemble Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) (fever, cough, shortness of breath) to seek necessary medical treatment or preventive services.Ā  Such treatment or preventive services will not negatively affect any alien as part of a future Public Charge analysis.Ā Ā 
  • Ā Legal Aid at Work provides clarity about Undocumented Workersā€™ Employment Rights, as well as aĀ  Coronavirus FAQs in English, Spanish &Ā  Chinese
  • Know Your Rights InformationĀ 
  • Ā Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of LA (CHIRLA) :
    • Hotline: (888) 624-4752 (Providing referrals to immigrant communities to the appropriate resources)Ā 
    • Virtual DACA Renewal Appointments on Tuesdays and Thursdays (30 participants per day) Must register here (link will close when appointment slots have been filled and will reopen for appointments on the following Tuesday and Thursday).
    • Asian Americans Advancing Justice- LA (AAAJ-LA) : Clients can call their helplines to get questions answered about various topics: citizenship, or other immigration remedies/ petitions, DCA renewals, family law, insurance access/ public charge, workers rights issues, etc.Ā 
      • English: 888-349-9695
      • Chinese: 800-520-2356
      • Korean: 800-867-3640
      • Tagalog: 855-300-2552
      • Thai: 800-914-9583
  • Ā List of Relief Funds for Undocumented Workers in California posted by Legal Aid at Work. list will be updated on a weekly basis.Ā 
  • Ā Tangible Support for Undocumented Communities during COVID-19 by the organization Immigrants RisingĀ Ā Ā Ā 
    • Comprehensive list of resources for undocumented families. There are resources on addressing fear and coping with stress, health access and guidance, connecting to free/low-cost resources, legal rights as employees, housing, and business and freelance support.
    • Contact with questions: nancy@immigrantsrising.org
  • Coronavirus Disaster Relief Assistance for Immigrants
    • California is providing state funded disaster relief assistance for undocumented individuals who were ineligible for other forms of assistance. An undocumented adult can receive $500 per adult and up to $1,000 per household.
  • Eligibility criteria:
    • Undocumented adult (over 18)
    • Not eligible for federal stimulus benefits
    • Experienced a hardship due to Covid-19
  • To apply, call:
    • (213) 315-2659 - CARACEN (Central American Resource Center)
    • Funds are limited and distributed first-come, first-served until depleted.
    • Personal information of applicants (name, address, etc.) will not be given to any government agency.
  • Catholic Charities of Los Angeles, Inc - Immigration and Refugee Services
Internet and Phone Services
  • LAUSD has compiled free internet resources for children and families needing access.
  • Charter Communications Spectrum Broadband: Free Spectrum broadband and Wi-Fi access for 60 days to households with K-12 and/or college students who do not already have a Spectrum broadband subscription.
  • Comcast: New Internet Essentials customers will receive two free months of Internet service, which is available to all qualified low-income households for $9.95/month plus tax.
  • Zoom: Temporarily lifting the 40-minute time limit on free Basic accounts for schools affected by the coronavirus.
  • Free Phone Through Lifeline program
  • Ā Computers with Causes
  • Ā PCs for People
  • Ā Computer Technology Assistance CorpsĀ 
    • Apply here: http://ctac-nh.zohosites.com/
    • provides affordable computers and other technology to low income families, non-profit organizations, Public and Private Schools, Libraries and faith based community service programs.
  • Ā EveryoneOnĀ 
    • Apply here: https://www.everyoneon.org/):Ā 
    • Offers a database searchable by zip code to help families find low-cost computers and internet service
  • Ā Comcast COVID-19 ResponseĀ 
  • Ā Charter Response
    • free internet offer for 2 months to new subscribers with K-12 and/or college students.
  • Ā Altice/Suddenlink ResponseĀ 
    • offers 30 MB internet to any new subscriber free for 60 days, no late fees or terminations for existing customers.
  • Ā Los Angeles County Internet Locator
  • Ā AT&T COVID-19 Response: offers $10/month plans to low income families. Check site for eligibility
  • Ā The Federal Communications Commission agreement
    • If you have existing service, by this agreement, your provider should waive late fee and not cut off service for lack of payment. Check with your provider to see if you are eligible and what qualifications there may be.
  • T-Mobile COVID-19 Response For Existing Customers
    • Ā follows FCC agreement, plus unlimited data to existing customers, and, coming soon, will allow all handsets to enable hot-spots for 60 days at no extra charge.
Legal Resources
  • Inner City Law CenterĀ 
    • If you are in need of legal assistance, please dial our main line at (213) 891-2880 and dial 0 to leave a voice message in our general voicemail box. We will make every effort to return your call within 24-48 hours.
    • Eviction Guidance & FAQs
  • Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (LAFLA)
    • Offices are closed until May 18th , applicants can access LAFLA services by calling us at 800-399-4529 Monday through Friday (9 amā€“noon or 1ā€“4:30 p.m. for intake only); or applying online 24/7
    • Free legal services to eligible individuals in the areas of domestic violence/family law, immigration, eviction defense, housing, employment, government benefits, veteransā€™ benefits, student loan issues, and expungements
      • Self-help Centers: currently closed until further notice. Litigants with urgent issues can call our self-help staff at 213-235-0060, 8:30 amā€“noon, Mondayā€“Friday, and 1:30ā€“4 pm, Mondayā€“Thursday
      • Domestic Violence Clinics: Assistance with domestic violence restraining orders on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9 amā€“12 pm and 1ā€“3 pm. Call (800)-399-4529 extension 8097 for help. Telephone numbers are for intake only.
    • Additional telephone numbers are available for other languages
  • Bet Tzedek - Workers Rights During COVID-19
    • Should you have any employment-related questions, including questions relating to how the current health crisis will affect your job and income, please call the intake line at (323) 939-0506 to make an appointment to speak with an advocate. In light of the current situation, it may take up to two weeks to speak with an advocate.
    • Their Employment Rights Project team will be holding weekly virtual clinics each 5:00-7:00 pm Wednesday. Those interested in making an appointment should call Bet Tzedek's main line at (323) 939-0506, extension 415. Flyers in English & Spanish.
  • Ā Public Counsel: help if you are facing eviction
    • Downtown, Compton, Long Beach.
    • Call (213) 385-2977, ext. 100 and leave a message with your name, number, and the legal issue you are trying to resolve.Ā  If you have received a complaint without a summons, call the Shriver Self-Help Center at (818) 485-0576 or email ShriverSHpublic@nlsla.org.
  • Ā California Womenā€™s Law Center
    • CWLC is hosting Free Virtual Legal Housing Clinics to get legal questions answered. Attorneys will be available to discuss legal housing needs, including questions about the COVID-19 emergency measures.
    • To receive legal assistance through the virtual clinics, please contact the CWLC at (323) 951-1041 or cwlc@cwlc.org
  • Catholic Charities of Los Angeles, Inc - Immigration and Refugee Services
    • ALL Legal immigration services are FREE during the COVID-19 Pandemic
    • You can Learn more about the services they offer at: CatholicCharitiesLA.org/IRR-immigration-and-refugee-services
    • Or Contact them by phone: (213) 251-3411
Meals
  • Information about P-EBT Benefits
    • Available to all children who are eligible for free or reduced-price meals at schools. These benefits help families buy food when schools are closed.
    • If families currently receive CalFresh, Medi-Cal or Foster Care benefits, they do not need to apply for this extra benefit. A P-EBT card will be mailed out to them during the month of May
  • Hawthorne School District
      • GRAB AND GO Meals available at the following school sites for ENROLLED Hawthorne School District Students.
      • Mondays and Wednesdays from 9:30 am-12:30 pm
      • Free breakfast and lunch will be available for all children ages 0-18 at:
        • Eucalyptus Elementary: 10244 S. EUCALYPTUS AVENUE
        • Kornblum Elementary: 3620 W. EL SEGUNDO BLVD.
        • Ramona Elementary: 4617 W. 136th Street, Hawthorne, CA 90250
        • Prairie Vista Middle School: 13600 PRAIRIE AVENUE
        • Washington Elementary/Hawthorne Middle School: 4339 W. 129TH STREET
  • El Torito Restaurant
    • Will be providing free takeout meals due to the school closures for children 12 years and under without any contingencies.
  • Ā LAUSD
    • Pickup breakfast and lunch from 7:00-10:00 am Monday-Friday. Meals are for children ages 1-18. Children must be physically present to receive a meal. All meals must be picked up and taken offsite.
    • Find the nearest location here.
  • LADPSS CalWORKS (Monthly Financial Assistance available to the public)
    • For Income and Eligibility details, please call (866) 613-3777.
    • Or view their eligibility Fact Sheet here.
  • CalFresh (Food Stamps)
    • Recipients of EBT (food stamps) will be able to purchase groceries ONLINE through Amazon and Walmart with a purchase of $35. More CalFresh/Food Stamp details regarding this new online shopping option available here.
    • EBT FAQs
    • If you need assistance in Spanish when applying for CalFresh, please call representatives from NHF Fortina Hernandez at (213) 910- 5822/Gilda Sion (213) 339-1619
    • Si usted necesita ayuda gratuita para aplicar para servicios de CalFresh, favor de llamar a nuestras representativas de NHF Fortina Hernandez at (213) 910- 5822/Gilda Sion (213) 339-1619
    • CalFresh Recipients who enroll in the Mas Fresco! More Fresh Program will earn $1 in financial incentives for every $1 of CalFresh EBT dollars spent on fruits and vegetables at the following Northgate Gonzalez market, up to $40 per month:
      • 230 N Harbor Boulevard, Santa Ana, CA 92703
      • 770 S Harbor Boulevard, Santa Ana, CA 92704
      • 1410 S 43rd Street, San Diego, CA 92113
      • 5403 University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92105
      • 10801 Prairie Avenue, Inglewood, CA 90303
      • 944 E. Slauson Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90011
    • Ā Other benefits of this program includes ongoing fruit and vegetable discount pricing promotions and nutrition education in the form of healthy food shelf-labeling, cooking classes, and store tours.
    • To enroll in the program access the following link: https://ucsdcommunityhealth.org/work/morefresh/
    • To qualify for this program, all participants must be actively receiving CalFresh benefits
  • St. Francis Center
    • Pickup breakfast six days a week from 7:30-8:00 am Monday, 7:30-9:00 am Tuesday-Friday, or 8:30-10:00 am Saturday. Meals are for anyone in need, but must be picked up and taken offsite.
  • Ɓnimo College Preparatory Academy
    • Breakfast and lunch served between 9:00 am-noon between Monday-Friday
  • DREAM Center
    • Offering free meals for all LAUSD students, but students must be physically present to receive meals.
    • Breakfast is served from 7:30-9:30 am; lunch from 11:30 am-1:30 pm; and dinner from; 4:30-6:30 pm.
    • Drive-Thru Open Monday - Friday from 11:00 am-2:00 pm
  • CII Preschools
    • Families with children enrolled at a CII preschool can pickup meals at their child's preschool from 11:30 am and 12:45 pm between Monday-Friday.
  • LAUSD and LA Charter School
    • Each LAUSD and Charter school providing meals with location and schedule included on this map here.
    • Grab and Go Centers are staffed weekly Monday - Friday from 8 to 11:00 AM. Children must be physically present to receive their meals. Students must bring the meal barcode that was mailed out to them. If one was not received, they will need to contact their school for a bar code. All meals must be picked up and taken off-site.
  • Ā Long Beach Unified School District
    • Meals for students in the district served from 8:00-9:00 am for breakfast and 11:30 am to 1:00 pm for lunch on Monday, March 23 at all schools except Beach/Reid, Browning, CAMS, Lowell, Millikan, Naples, PAAL, Renaissance, Sato and Stanford. Those schools will no longer serve meals during the school closure period. Starting Tuesday, March 24 the remainder of schools offering meals will transition to one pick-up period from 11:30 am-1 pm. During that time, students can receive lunch along with food items for the next day's breakfast. Students who attend schools that no longer serve meals can still receive meals at their nearest school.
  • Ā Hollywood Food CoalitionĀ 
    • Location: 5939 Hollywood Blvd, LA CA 90028,Ā 
    • When: Every night from 6:30 pm-8 pm for a hot take away meal
    • Phone number: (323) 462-2032
  • Ā Carvey Kitchen: Pico Robertson
    • 8832 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90035
    • For seniors 65 and over: 30% off all meals (free delivery). Order by phone or online.
  • The Midnight Mission
    • 601 S. San Pedro St., Los Angeles, CA 90014
    • Ā Free meals served every day.Ā Ā 
    • Breakfast: 7 - 7:45am; Lunch: 12:30 - 1:00pm; and Dinner 4:30 - 5:15pm
    • Phone: (213) 624-9258
  • 1736 Family Crisis Center (2116 Arlington Avenue, Ste. 200 Los Angeles, CA 90018; and 5213 W. Pico Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90019)
    • Ā Diaper Giveaway (must make an appointment) for low-income parents living in the city of Los Angeles with infants/children
    • (323) 737-3900 ext. 244; (323) 904-3832 ext 211
    • Requirements for this giveaway include: Proof of income (date 90 days) and proof of address (dated within 90 days or unexpired ID/DL)
    • Walkins are accepted but appointments are highly encouraged.
  • ALMA at St. Albert The Great Church
    • Food Give Away (Drive-up) Event will take place at 804 E. Compton Blvd. Rancho Dominguez, CA 90220 (Entrance on Redondo Beach Blvd.)
    • Food Give Away will start at 8:00am on Sunday, August 16 and 30.Ā Ā 
    • Only 200 prepackaged bags will be distributed.Ā  This event will be on a first come, first serve basis.
    • All participants must remain in their cars.Ā  Staff will walk to your car to hand over a grocery bag.
  • Lynwood Unified School District
Seniors
  • Meals on Wheels: Taking new applicants on waitlist. Prioritizing senior citizens.
    • To request meal service, call us at (213) 484-7775 between the hours of 8:00 am-4:00 pm, emailĀ  ifyouneedmeals@stvincentmow.org, or fill out the form on the attached link.
  • Everytable
    • The company is distributing meals to seniors who need food brought to their homes. Meals are also being made available to students. Food distribution centers that can distribute food to a large group should also contact Everytable at (323) 458-6487.
  • Ā Greater Emmanuel Temple
    • Seniors in Lynwood, Compton, South Gate, Watts who need food delivery.
    • Please call (424) 296-0400 to schedule food delivery
    • 9:00 am-noon Tuesday-Friday
  • Seniors in Lynwood, Compton, South Gate, Watts who need food delivery
    • Call Greater Emmanuel Temple at 424.296.0400Ā 
    • 9:00 am-12:00 pm Tuesday-Friday
  • Willowbrook Senior Center: Free Meals for Adults
    • 12915 Jarvis Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90061
    • Box of food is prepackaged and ready for pick up
    • Starting April 20th, meal pick up times will be provided over the phone.
    • Pick up appointments are available only on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday.Ā 
    • Must call this number for appointment: (310) 217-5650
  • Ā Grocery stores allowing Senior Citizen-only shopping hours:
    • All locations for Super A between 7:00-8:00 amĀ 
    • Vallarta Supermarket:Ā  7:00-8:00 am
    • Northgate Market:Ā  7:00-8:00 amĀ 
    • Big Saver Foods: 7:00-8:00 am
    • Cardenas: 7:00-8:00 am
    • Stater Bros Markets: 7:00-8:00 am
    • Smart & Final: 7:30-8:00
    • Albertsons: Tuesdays & Thursdays: 7:00-9:00 am
    • Target: Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8:00-9:00 am
    • Long Beach area:Ā  Food delivered to seniors, disabled and individuals who have compromised immune systemsĀ Ā 
    • Motherā€™s MarketĀ 
      • All stores in the Southern Los Angeles and Long Beach region will allow the elderly, disabled and individuals with compromised immune systems to sign up for grocery deliveries to their homes. Stores are also opening an hour early at 6:00 am on Wednesdays to allow them time to shop for groceries.Ā Ā Ā 
      • Sign up for food delivery on Motherā€™s Market site Mother's Market & Kitchen Powered by Instacart and use the code FREE4SENIORSĀ Ā 
      • All Motherā€™s Market stores locationsĀ 
      • Every Wednesday, starting March 18, all stores will open at 6:00 a.m., one hour earlier, to accommodate only people who fall into high-risk populations ā€“ elderly, disabled, those with compromised immune systems, chemo patients, etc.
  • Ā Helping Hands Senior Foundation
    • Phone Number: (818) 279-6580
    • Description:
      • Clients 65+ with Medicare
      • Test are sent in the mail to clientā€™s home
      • Clients should call the center and they will give further instruction. Care coordinator will then reach out within 2-3 business days
    • Days & times - anytime 9-5:30 Monday-Friday
    • They also provide seniors 65+ with placement assistance, Medication Management, Transportation/ Errands, Meal Preparation Grooming, Medical equipment, and many more services free of charge.
  • City of LA - Emergency Senior Meals Response Program
    • Seniors in need can have healthy meals delivered to their homes. City of L.A. residents ages 60 and older who are not currently participating in other meal programs can apply online.
    • Seniors or their caregivers can also sign up by calling the Emergency Senior Meals Response Hotline at (213) 263-5226, from 9:00 am-5:00 pm from Monday-Sunday
  • The County and City of Los Angeles
    • Providing free meals to older adults aged 60 and older who are impacted by the COVID-19 Crisis. Call 1-800-510-2020 to request services.
    • Meals are provided either at distribution sites or via home-delivered meals. Site map here.
    • Older adults 65 and older must send a family member, friend or caregiver who is under the age of 65 to pick up meals at their assigned site.
    • If you have questions: Call the Department of Aging at 213-482-7252 or email age.webinfo@lacity.org.
Talking to Your Kids About CoronavirusĀ 
Training/Parenting Resources
  • CII Microsoft Teams COVID19 Resource Channel
  • Online Resources Excel
  • COVID-19 Los Angeles Mass Resource List (non-editable)Ā Ā 
  • Health Care Toolbox - Addressing the Psychological and Emotional Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Children, Families, and Healthcare Staff
    • Health Care Toolbox, a Center for Pediatric Traumatic Stress (CPTS) website, now has information and resources to help healthcare staff and families manage the stress/psychological impact of COVID-19. Healthcare professionals will find information on how stress caused by the pandemic impacts them, how to build coping and resilience skills, and signs of secondary traumatic stress. Families will find information on how parents can help their children cope, downloadable tip sheets, and additional resources.
  • Headspace Resources for LA County
    • Countywide launch allowing all Los Angeles County residents free access to the collection of mindfulness and meditation resources.
  • Torrance DCFS Office & South Bay Counseling Center: hosting Virtual Resource Fairs every Wednesday in June at 10 AM!
  • Ā Hollygrove Virtual Parent Institute- a place for parents and caretakers with children from 0-18 years of age to connect with and support one another and learn new skills.Ā 
  • Ā Black Daddy Dialogue Social Support Group
    • Father/figures of all ages raising African American/Black children are welcome!!
    • Support for Black Father/figures who support pregnant women or children 0-5 yo.
    • Email LeHenry Solomon for any questions or inquiries fathersforabrighterfuture@gmail.comĀ  or call 424-223-2133
Translated Information
  • Click here for translated into: Arabic, Dari, English, Kinyarwanda, Russian, Spanish, Swalihi, Tigrinya
  • Translated infoĀ - includes information in 85 languages
  • You can now listen to the County's daily updates in Spanish, Mandarin, or Korean in real-time everyday at 1:00pm.
    • For Spanish: (877) 873-8017, Access Code: 222222
    • For Mandarin: (877) 611-4778, Access Code: 9516097
    • For Korean: (877) 611-4778, Access Code: 9275591
  • CDC Info in languages other than English here
Utilities
  • SoCal Gas: Announced they will not disconnect services to customers who are not able to pay their bills due to COVID-19 hardships. Please call 1-800-427-2200.
Youth Resources
  • Casa de la Familia presents a work shop fo youth ages 12-18. 13 Reasons Why I Can Love Myself. A youth empowerment group that addresses the topic of sexaul assault.Ā 
    • Thursdays 3-4:30pm onlineĀ 
    • (714)667-5220
  • Our Spot Relaunch- sites open July 6thĀ 
    • Our SPOT is an after-school program for teens ages 12-18. Our SPOT is a fun, safe and supportive place where teens can check-in daily, Monday through Friday all year long. Programming takes on a strength-based approach engaging youth from our communities to explore their unique and collective lived experiences through various forms of recreation programming, visual arts sessions, social action activities, and educational field trips. Focus is placed on aiding teens in setting meaningful goals to accomplish individually and collaboratively through peer-to-peer leadership, art, special gatherings, and park engagement.
    • Visit https://parks.lacounty.gov/ourspot/ for locations, hours, and how to register.
  • LGBTQ+ Resources for High school Students
    • FREE support groups and Drop-In Space
    • Teen LGBTQ+ Discussion Group Thurs starting October 8 - 5 pm -6 pm register here
    • Parent Support Group Thursday 6 pm-7 pm RSVP here
    • 818-527-6562 WeExist@tarzanatc.org@WeExist.TTC
Pets
  • The YMCA
    • Free Cat/Dog Food every Wednesday
    • Starting at 11:00 am (Until Supplies Last)
    • 2900 Whittier Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90023

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Precautions

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In response to Coronavirus (COVID-19), Childrenā€™s Institute is taking the following precautions to ensure the safety of the children and families we serve, as well as our staff. Our goal is to continue providing services, by phone or video whenever possible, even in these challenging times.

  • In accordance with recommendations from the CDC, county and state officials, we are requiring the majority of our staff to work from home in order to maximize social distancing. Fewer employees at our locations reduces the risk for families and staff at our facilities.
  • CIIā€™s main sites (Otis Booth, Watts, Watts Civic Center, Rosecrans, Compton EHS, Long Beach, Figueroa and Wilmington) remain open with limited operations for the time-being.
  • Now that LAUSD has announced school closures, we have temporarily closed our early education centers effective Monday, March 16, 2020.
    • We are moving to a virtual model to support continued learning, and we remain committed to ensuring the 2,500 children served in our early education programs receive access to nutritious meals during the week. Parents can pick up meals for their enrolled child or children at their usual site location between 11:30am-12:45pm Monday-Friday.
  • Adhering to LAUSD and other districtsā€™ policies, school-based programs are postponed.
  • We have postponed our upcoming events (e.g., Volunteer Orientations, Professional Trainings, Mix & Mingle, Summit on Children Exposed to Violence and Plated) originally scheduled for March, April and May 2020.
  • We are working with our funders to ensure we can comply with their guidelines while providing quality Behavioral Health & Wellness care remotely via HIPAA compliant video conferencing.

We are deeply committed to the children and families we serve, and we will do our best to assist wherever we can during these difficult times.

Please do not hesitate to contact us with questions during regular business hours at 213-385-5100.

For a list of free resources available to families, click here.Ā 

For the latest information on staying safe, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention websiteĀ here.

Father-Daughter Tea Brews Lifelong Bonds

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Childrenā€™s Instituteā€™s Project Fatherhood program recently hosted its 8th annual Father-Daughter Tea, a special opportunity for fathers and daughters to spend time together in a memorable princess-themed setting.

Roughly 70 people attended the event at CIIā€™s Otis Booth Campus in Echo Park. The dads are enrolled in Project Fatherhood where they learn skills to be active participants in their childrenā€™s lives while supporting one another through the programā€™s Men in Relationships Group.

As a long-time supporter of Father-Daughter Tea, the Junior League of Los Angeles (JLLA) brought 30 volunteers to Saturdayā€™s event. In addition to helping out with the activities, the group provided floral center pieces, nail painting materials and pastries.

Edward Berumen, Senior Clinical Supervisor at Project Fatherhood, said the tea is designed so fathers spend valuable one on one time with their daughters. For many dads, the default is for the mom to take on parenting responsibilities with daughters. Berumen said the program encourages dads to take individual parenting roles with all of their children.

ā€œThe key to the event is providing an opportunity for fathers and daughters to interact in a way that can be replicated,ā€ he said. ā€œFor many of the dads, this wasnā€™t something theyā€™ve had the chance to do and we want them to feel like this can be a regular experience.ā€

While Project Fatherhood hosts other family events throughout the year, including a father-son event, Keith Parker, Director of Project Fatherhood, said there is something special about the interactions at the Father-Daughter Tea.

CII celebrates dads enrolled in Project Fatherhood
Anthony and his daughter Faith attended Saturday’s event where they enjoyed the photo booth and nail painting station.

ā€œThis event is about the excitement of seeing little girls creating memories with their fathers that theyā€™ll look back on in 20-30 years from now and think about how they got spend one on one time with their dad,ā€ he said.

Project Fatherhood client Anthony attended Saturdayā€™s event with his daughter Faith. Anthony said he appreciates the events Project Fatherhood hosts during the year where he can bond with his children while connecting with other dads. He said his weekly Project Fatherhood group has taught him patience while also offering emotional support during challenging times.

Children's Institute's Father-Daughter Tea is supported by Good+Foundation
Good+Foundation provided gift bags to each girl including cosmetic items.

ā€œIt means a lot to us for everyone to take the time out and create an event where I can sit down and have tea with my daughter,ā€ he said as his daughter showed off her newly painted nails from the nearby manicure station run by JLLA.

In addition to JLLAā€™s support, Good+Foundation donated gift bags that were filled with makeup, hygiene items, and other special gifts for the girls and their fathers.

To learn more about Project Fatherhood, click here. View more event photos here.

Blue Shield of California Foundation Commits $300,000 to Trauma Prevention

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Childrenā€™s Institute has received new funding to evaluate programs that support families impacted by generational trauma and community violence in South Los Angeles. Blue Shield of California Foundation has committed $300,000 to study the impact of our 2-Generation Neighborhood School Program at two early education sites over the next two years.

The funding is part of the foundationā€™s $9 million commitment to organizations across California. ā€œWeā€™re incredibly excited to support CII, which has been a cornerstone community service and is on the frontline of prevention, especially in communities experiencing enormous duress in this political and policy environment,ā€ said Carolyn Wang Kong, Blue Shield of California Foundation Chief Program Director.

High rates of poverty and violent crime disproportionately plague areas of South LA where CII operates 28 Head Start and Early Head Start centers. CIIā€™s 2-Generation Neighborhood Schools Program, also known as whole-child whole-family, began last fall at Ɓnimo College Preparatory Academy, Florence Griffith Joyner Elementary School and CIIā€™s Jordan Downs Head Start in response to the needs of children and families living in poverty who face housing instability, inadequate healthcare, and exposure to trauma at home or in their communities ā€“ all of which all impact learning ability.

2-generation model support children impacted by poverty

The central idea is to turn the early education center into a hub of services and supports for children and families. Services will be provided by CII and other partners such as food pantries, workforce development specialists, primary care providers and more.

The grant from Blue Shield will study the impact of the 2-Generation approach when it is expanded to CIIā€™s Main Street and South Vermont early education centers.

Dr. Todd Sosna, Chief Program Officer at CII, said that most families who engage with CII have complex needs and as a result can benefit from multiple services. The concept behind this approach is that both children and parents are supported in a comprehensive manner, rather than focusing services on just one family member and just one area of need. CII believes enduring success involves the entire family by building on their strengths to support all areas of need.

ā€œWe are able to do this by coordinating services within CII and partnering with other agencies,ā€ Dr. Sosna said. ā€œBeing more intentional around providing services to both children and parents is a strategic priority for CII, and the focus of ongoing efforts implemented throughout our agency.ā€

Childrenā€™s Institute is Supporting Critically Important Census Work in 2020

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Childrenā€™s Institute is partnering with the US Census Bureau to ensure everyone in South Los Angeles participates in the official 2020 Census.

CII will be joining 50 groups that are identifying ā€œhard-to-countā€ populations; historically, residents of low income neighborhoods, specifically children under five, are under-counted.

Ginger Lavender-Wilkerson is the Clinical Program Manager coordinating the census work at CII. She said it is crucial for neighborhoods like Watts to receive an accurate count because the census data will determine how funding is distributed for government-funded services like Medi-Cal, CalFresh and housing assistance.

In the past, for example, the Census didnā€™t necessarily capture all low income people living in large, multi-unit buildings, particularly those living with non-family members or multiple generations occupying a single unit. With five large housing developments and a median household income of $25,000, Watts is considered one of LAā€™s most challenging areas ahead of the 2020 Census.


With five large housing developments and a median household income of $25,000 per year, Watts is considered one of LAā€™s most challenging areas ahead of the 2020 Census.

ā€œThis project only happens once every 10 years and serves as the official record of who is counted in the United States.Ā  The results will determine how resources will be allocated and who will receive critically important services,ā€ Lavender-Wilkerson said.

Based out of CIIā€™s Watts Campus, Lavender-Wilkerson heads team that includes Deborah Riddle, Senior Community Affairs Specialist, and Raul Aguirre, Community Affairs Specialist.

ā€œWe already provide a number of different services in this area – early childhood education, behavioral health and family supports — so we are uniquely qualified to coordinate outreach efforts,ā€ Riddle said. ā€œWe are really focused on making sure kids are counted because one day they may need these services.ā€

Children's Institute outreach for 2020 Census
Raul Aguirre, Community Affairs Specialist, will handle the face-to-face outreach by relying on contacts he has made through outreach work in and around Watts.

Riddle said CII will lean on its established network in South LA to hold 18 workshops with community members and make 500 attempts to engage residents in areas that are considered hard to count in and around Watts. The CII outreach team will also partner with US Census officials to create a self-service kiosk where residents can get information on how to register.

Aguirre, who works directly with families in Watts, will handle the face-to-face outreach by relying on his contacts living in housing developments. Census work is not new to Aguirre, who worked on Skid Row to count downtown LAā€™s homeless population for the last Census.

ā€œMaking sure census work is done accurately will help more children have access to important programs like Head Start,ā€ he said. ā€œThese are the families I support every day, and I know how crucial these services are to their futures.ā€

CII has already started planning census outreach strategies and will start officially working with the community between February and May of this year.

Upcoming Census Meetings

  • February 21st – 6:30-7:30 pm
    Project Fatherhood Meeting
    Nickerson Gardens, 1590 East 114th Street, Los Angeles, California, 90059
  • March 5th – 8:15-9:00 am
    Florence Griffith Joyner: Neighborhood Schools Civic Engagement Meeting
    1963 E 103rd St, Los Angeles, California, 90002

If you would like more information on CII’s Census outreach, please contact Deborah Riddle, Senior Community Affairs Specialist.

An Early Start on Nutrition in South LA

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Each day, teachers inside Childrenā€™s Institute classrooms arrange a spread of fruit, vegetables and other healthy foods for preschool children to eat together as they break from a busy day of learning and playing. What may seem like a routine scene is actually a central program to CII that addresses the food challenges families in South Los Angeles face by promoting basic food education while also promoting affordable and healthy meal plans for families facing food insecurity.

For decades, South LA families have been eating too much processed and fast food that is often cheap, but lacks important nutrients. As a result, residents report significantly higher rates of obesity, diabetes and heart disease compared to other parts of the city. Understanding the importance of a well-balanced diet, CII operates a nutrition program that is poised to expand healthy habits to thousands of families in 2020.

Having only one staff member six years ago, CII now has a team of four nutrition specialists led by Karissa Yu, Registered Dietitian. ā€œWe aim to empower parents to be agents of change in the home, prepare nutritious meals and instill good eating habits,ā€ Yu said.

Nutrition at CII

The nutrition program operates at each of CIIā€™s 28 early childhood education sites where team members develop curriculum that introduces students to fruits and vegetables while showing them that nutritious foods can taste good and help them grow into people like their sports idols.

Julie Miranda, a Nutrition Specialist on Yuā€™s team, said visiting classrooms allow the team to also conduct health assessments. For children registering overweight or having high blood pressure, the team schedules time with family members to make recommendations on healthy meal plans.

Miranda said that eating habits are often influenced by generational routines along with what foods they can afford. So while grocery stores in South LA have increased the availability of fresh food, food education is key to eating healthier.

ā€œA lot of our families come from generations of knowing only one way to cook and our school systems havenā€™t prioritized nutrition until recently so thereā€™s a lot we can teach families,ā€ Miranda said.

The team recommend nutritious family meals that are under $10 by keeping a list of affordable in-season items that are hardier and can keep kids full. The nutrition team also partners with organizations that address food insecurity and alert families when food is available for reduced prices or free.

ā€œWe want families to know there is support out there for them, because we know they want to support their own kids in healthy habits if given the right opportunities,ā€ Miranda said.

CII has been able to build the nutrition program thanks to funding from groups like the Herbalife Nutrition Foundation. In addition to supporting the nutrition team, the foundation helps children gain hands on experience with growing vegetables and helps fund an annual nutrition fair for families.

ā€œOur long-standing relationship with CII is built on our shared vision of a world where everyone has access to quality food and nutrition,ā€ said Jenny Perez, Executive Director of the Herbalife Nutrition Foundation. ā€œPartnerships with impactful community partners like CII is central to our focus of providing access to healthy foods, improving nutrition education, identifying sustainable food resources and raising awareness of the global crisis.ā€

If you are interested in supporting CIIā€™s nutrition program through a donation or volunteer opportunity, please contact Soleil Delgadillo, Volunteer & Community Engagement Manager, here.